Catholic Culture: Catholic Activity: Carnival or Mardi Gras

Maria Augusta Trapp explains the origin of the time of feasting and revelry between Epiphany and Ash Wednesday, the seasonal celebration of Mardi Gras, which marks the beginning of Lent. Article also touches on the related tradition of Carnival, which marks the interval between Christmas and Lent, and delves into the pre-Christian roots of these observances and their more contemporary modes of celebration.